“I think it’s wonderful,” said Kurtz, speaking to reporters soon after Pope Francis’ election was announced, first with billowing white smoke from the Sistine Chapel.

“I think it’s a testimony of the reality of the universality of the church. That’s first and foremost. Secondly, it’s an awareness, isn’t it, that our Holy Father, is coming from an area in which there is a great expression of faith. Of course, the richness that we see within the United States of devotion and enthusiasm for the faith is often coming from families who are recently here.”

Kurtz said that the Catholic Church doesn’t necessarily distinguish between North and South America, noting that a synod under Pope John Paul II focused on the church on both continents together. For Kurtz, this meant “one of our brothers was elected pope.”

Hillis said he has some concerns about Pope Francis’ age—76—and whether he’ll be able to carry out reforms in the Vatican.

But Hillis added: “I’m thrilled. This is a man who has, throughout his life, exemplified humility and love, and he demonstrated that humility in his decision to be named “Francis” and in his humble request for prayer on the balcony. He has shown a profound love for the poor and the marginalized throughout his life.”